The Cooperative Maine Business Alliance is gearing up for its “Principle 6 Conference: Resilient Communities Through Cooperative Solutions” taking place on April 11 in Auburn, Maine.
The 2026 Principle 6 Conference will highlight how cooperatives strengthen communities in Maine and beyond through collaboration, innovation and shared values. This year’s theme, “Resilient Communities through Cooperative Solutions,” invites participants to explore how cooperative approaches help address local challenges and create lasting impact.
NCBA CLUSA president and CEO Doug O’Brien is this year’s keynote speaker. O’Brien will explore how cooperatives build resilience across interconnected ecosystems, from local communities to national and global movements. Drawing on examples from Maine and beyond, he will examine how cooperative ecosystems strengthen impact, how Maine’s co-ops contribute to the broader U.S. cooperative ecosystem, and where opportunities exist for leadership and advocacy. With Maine’s motto, Dirigo (“I lead”) in mind, this keynote will highlight how cooperatives lead social, economic and community change to build resilient communities.
The Principle Six Conference is an annual gathering of cooperative leaders, practitioners, advocates and supporters from across Maine and beyond who come together to exchange ideas, deepen skills and strengthen our shared cooperative economy.